LOS ANGELES – The Wisconsin football team struggled in the second half on Saturday, ultimately leading to a 38-21 defeat against No. 16 USC in their Big Ten opener at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, where 74,118 fans were in attendance.
The Badgers failed to generate effective offense or significant defensive stops in the final quarters, allowing USC to score 28 unanswered points. Overall, Wisconsin was outgained 469 yards to 285, with a particularly poor showing in the second half where they managed just 82 yards to USC’s 205.
Sophomore quarterback Braedyn Locke had an up-and-down performance, completing 13 of 26 passes for 180 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Senior running back Tawee Walker had a productive day on the ground, rushing for 55 yards on 12 attempts and scoring two touchdowns. Junior Vinny Anthony also made a notable contribution, recording a team-high 70 receiving yards and catching his first collegiate touchdown with a 63-yard reception in the first quarter.
Here are five key takeaways from the game:
Wisconsin’s defense struggled on third downs
The Badgers found it difficult to stop USC on crucial third downs, which ultimately proved detrimental. After allowing two touchdowns in the third quarter, Wisconsin’s defense was unable to halt the Trojans, who converted on five straight third downs, averaging 14 yards gained per play. A 32-yard completion from quarterback Miller Moss to Duce Robinson helped set up the Trojans to score, turning a 21-10 halftime deficit into a 24-21 lead heading into the final quarter.
Turnovers weighed heavily on the Badgers
Despite winning the turnover battle 3-2, Wisconsin couldn’t afford any mistakes. A muffed punt from Tyrell Henry after forcing USC to go three and out early in the second half gave the Trojans a short field. USC capitalized on this opportunity, scoring a touchdown from a nine-play, 30-yard drive.
Explosive plays against USC’s defense bore fruit
Wisconsin’s willingness to challenge USC’s defense vertically paid off at times. In the first half, Locke connected with Anthony for a 63-yard touchdown pass, and later completed a 35-yard reception to Bryson Green that set up a touchdown run by Walker, extending the Badgers’ lead to 21-10.
Punter Atticus Bertrams was a key player
Sophomore punter Atticus Bertrams had an impressive performance, averaging 50 yards per punt in the first half. A highlight was his 74-yard punt that pinned USC at their own 1-yard line, leading to an interception by Wisconsin’s Preston Zachman. Bertrams also created a turnover after a 39-yard punt was muffed by Zachariah Branch, allowing the Badgers to score again.
Wisconsin finished the first half strong
In the closing moments of the first half, Wisconsin turned the tide in their favor. Defensive pressure from Leon Lowery led to a fumble from Moss, which was recovered by Badger Ben Barten, thwarting a USC drive. Although Wisconsin could not score, they managed to run down the clock significantly, denying USC any chance for a late half score.
Overall, Wisconsin’s inability to maintain their momentum in the second half and capitalize on opportunities ultimately led to their downfall against USC.